University District Moratorium

Today I got Council approval for a development moratorium in the University District neighborhoods (Marcy Holmes, Prospect Park, Southeast Como and Cedar Riverside). The moratorium prohibits demolition of single family homes, duplexes and triplexes, and also bars new construction of 1-4 unit residential developments. However, projects that wish to be exempted from the moratorium may apply to the City's Zoning and Planning Committee.



The purpose of the moratorium is to give City Planning staff the space to work with the University District Partnership Alliance and the neighborhoods on a study to address land use and development concerns in the University district, including parking, occupancy, design standards, zoning, inspections and the development review process. The moratorium will ensure that property owners do not make major changes while the study is being completed.

While the moratorium takes effect immediately, the matter is now referred to the Zoning and Planning Committee where a public hearing date will be set and more specifics about the conditions upon which waivers will be granted and other matters will be worked out. I welcome your thoughts and concerns (as always).

I believe that the establishment of the University District Alliance and it early effectiveness has been and will continue to be key to the success of this study and review. I am very hopeful that the moratorium will give us the breathing room needed to make zoning and other regulatory changes that will not only improve conditions for residents and businesses in the area, but also for future private development efforts and developers. Clearly framing and defining what kinds of future development is desired, allowed and appropriate will lead to better, easier and more productive private investment decisions


I look forward to working with members of the Alliance and others you live or do business in the area, as well as with City staff and the neighborhood organizations as we move forward to find unique solutions to the unique challenges facing University District residents, so that when development occurs it enhances, rather than diminishes, our neighborhoods.